Innovation Lead

Overview

Iron EagleX (IEX), a wholly owned subsidiary of General Dynamics, delivers agile IT and Intelligence solutions. Combining small-team flexibility with global scale, IEX leverages emerging technologies to provide innovative, user-focused solutions that empower organizations and end users to operate smarter, faster, and more securely in dynamic environments.

Responsibilities

Job Description:

As an Innovation Lead supporting a classified IT infrastructure modernization program, you will spearhead the adoption of cloud-based solutions with a primary focus on transitioning from legacy on-premises systems to AWS. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience with IT transformation initiatives, particularly within classified environments, and demonstrate a strong understanding of secure network frameworks and compliance requirements. This position is on-site at Ft. Belvoir, VA.

• Drive the strategic vision and roadmap for cloud adoption and modernization, ensuring alignment with customer objectives and mission requirements.
• Lead the design and implementation of AWS-based solutions, optimizing performance, scalability, and security within classified networks.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify innovative approaches for integrating cloud technologies into existing IT infrastructure.
• Ensure compliance with all relevant government security frameworks, such as RMF, NIST 800-53, and ICD 503.
• Provide leadership in developing prototypes, proofs of concept, and technical demonstrations to validate modernization strategies.
• Advise senior stakeholders on emerging technologies and their applicability to program objectives.
• Monitor industry trends in cloud computing and IT modernization to identify opportunities for improvement and innovation.

Job Duties Include (but are not limited to):

• Oversee the migration of critical applications, data, and services from on-premises infrastructure to AWS.
• Conduct assessments of existing systems and recommend modernization solutions that align with operational requirements and security constraints.
• Collaborate with cybersecurity teams to ensure cloud environments adhere to stringent security protocols and support classified workloads.
• Develop and maintain technical documentation, including architecture diagrams, migration plans, and system configurations.
• Act as a subject matter expert in cloud and on-premises hybrid solutions, providing mentorship and technical guidance to team members.
• Coordinate with program management to track project progress and ensure delivery of high-quality solutions on schedule.

Qualifications

Required Skills & Experience:

• 10+ years of experience in IT infrastructure, cloud computing, or related domains, with at least 5 years in leadership roles.
• Extensive experience designing and deploying solutions in AWS, including services such as EC2, S3, Lambda, RDS, and VPCs.
• Strong knowledge of security requirements and protocols for classified environments, including experience with RMF and NIST standards.
• Proven ability to lead complex IT modernization projects, from concept to execution, in government or defense contracting environments.
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to translate technical concepts into actionable insights.

Desired Skills:

• AWS certifications, such as AWS Certified Solutions Architect or AWS Certified Security - Specialty.
• Familiarity with hybrid cloud environments and integration of on-premises systems with cloud platforms.
• Experience with DevSecOps practices and tools, such as CI/CD pipelines, containerization, and infrastructure as code.
• Understanding of classified government customer workflows and mission-critical operations.

Education & Certifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or a related field; equivalent experience may be considered.

Security Clearance:

• An active TS/SCI clearance required.

Benefits:

• National health, vision, and dental plans
• 20 days of PTO and 11 paid holidays
• Life Insurance
• Short- and long-term disability plans
• 401(K) retirement plan
• Incentive and recognition programs
• Relocation opportunities

Equal Opportunity Employer / Individuals with Disabilities / Protected Veterans